SLING POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

CATHETER CARE:

You may or may not go home with a catheter or tube in your bladder. If you are not unable to void, you may go home with a catheter overnight. The catheter will then be removed in the office the following morning. In some cases, a home health nurse may remove the catheter for you.

DIET:

You may return to your normal diet immediately. However, because the bladder surface or lining may be irritable as a result of the surgery, alcohol, spicy foods, caffeine, and cranberry drinks may cause some irritation or sense of the need to void despite the fact that the catheter is emptying the bladder. If these foods don't bother you, however, there is no reason to avoid them in moderation. More importantly is to keep your urine flowing freely, drink plenty of fluids during the day (8 - 10 glasses). The type of fluids (except alcohol) is not as important as the amount. Water is best, but juices, coffee, tea, and soda are all acceptable.

ACTIVITY:

Your physical activity is to be restricted, especially during the first 2 weeks home. During this time use the following guidelines:
a. No lifting heavy objects (anything greater that 15 lbs).
b. No strenuous exercise, limit stair climbing to minimum.
C. No sexual activity.
D. No stretching or riding bikes.

WOUND:

The sutures in the vagina or in the penis will dissolve on their own. If present, leave the steri-strips in the pubic area until they fall off on their own. You may shower the day after surgery, but no swimming or tub bathing for 7 days.

MEDICATION:

You should resume your pre-surgery medication unless told not to. Pain pills (Vicodin or Percocet) may also be given to help with wound and catheter discomfort. Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil (Ibuprofen) which have no narcotics are better if the pain is not too bad. Ask your doctor his recommendations.

PROBLEMS YOU SHOULD REPORT TO US:

a. Fevers over 101.5 Fahrenheit.
b. Heavy bleeding, or clots in the catheter or during voiding.
c. Drug reactions (Hives, rash, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea).
d. IF APPLICABLE, CALL IMMEDIATELY IF THE CATHETER STOPS DRAINING OR YOU ARE UNABLE TO URINATE.

FOLLOW-UP:

You will need a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress. Usually the first appointment will be about 7-14 days after your surgery.

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